She said it had been a close competition, with Scott Lanceley from Craggy Range taking second place and James Kenny from Martinborough Vineyards coming third.
Because Mr Langlands was going to work a vintage in California, he would not be available for the national final, so Mr Lanceley is going to take his place and represent the Wairarapa region. He will be competing against other finalists from Hawke's Bay, Marlborough and Central Otago, in Hawke's Bay on August 27.
Janine Pedersen was the Biostart hortisport event organiser, which is a series of "ridiculous and fun" time-based activities for the competitors to do on their lunch break. "It's a light-hearted side to the day and spectator orientated."
Miss Pedersen, who has been in the wine industry for 26 years, said the Young Viticulturist of the Year competition was a fantastic way of introducing and supporting the young up-and-coming people in the industry.
"It's all about the young people gaining confidence and skills and inter-personal relationships.
"It's a really good way of encouraging their enthusiasm to pursue the industry further so there's people to continue it on - they are the future of our industry."
Ms Grandorge said competition questions were set by the national and local sponsors, who were all specialists in various aspects of the industry.
"As well as testing the knowledge and skills of the contestants, the competition gives everyone involved an invaluable opportunity for networking and relationship building."
She said the competition was in its 10th year and had become an important fixture.
"It gives young viticulturists the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge, as well as make a name for themselves within the industry."
The national winner will secure a place in the Young Horticulturist of the Year competition, representing the viticultural industry.
